Rudi’s Bakery, makers of Rustics Organic Breads, is expanding to the heartland of Iowa!

After much ado in the Iowa state local press, Rudi’s Bakery has finally commenced construction of their new $6 million bakery in North Liberty, Iowa. The new 35,000-square-foot bakery is expected to create over 100 jobs with above-average wages and is scheduled to be open for manufacturing sometime in the early part of 2001. An official ground-breaking ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 am on Friday, September 29, 2000.

“We are excited about this expansion and are grateful to all those involved who have helped make this dream a reality!” said John D. Hay, Chief Executive Officer of Rudi’s Bakery, Inc. Hay, former Chairman, President and Founder of Celestial Seasonings Tea Company, joined Rudi’s Bakery in 1998, and is well connected in the organic and natural foods industry. “This expansion is crucial for us, as we have reached peak capacity in our Boulder facility, and with our sales growing exponentially — quite frankly, we can’t wait to expand our business and start baking in Iowa,” stated Hay.

Rudi’s Bakery, based in Boulder Colorado, opened for business in 1976 and has since grown from a local bakery shop into a pioneering wholesale bakery, with distribution throughout the US. Rudi’s Bakery produces an entire line of Certified Organic sandwich and artisan breads under the Rustics brand name. In 1981, Rudi’s Bakery underwent a rigorous process to make their product line kosher. An active member of the American Institute of Baking, the Organic Trade Association and Organic Alliance, Rudi’s Bakery is also committed to supporting a variety of charities, clubs and schools, as well as donating over 1,000 lbs of bread a week to their local Community Food Share program.

“We sincerely believe we could not have found a better expansion opportunity anywhere else. Iowa’s financial arrangements are highly innovative and competitive and the growth environment for our company and our products is outstanding,” said Hay.

Rustics Organic Breads are available throughout Colorado at King Soopers/City Market, Safeway, Whole Foods/Alfalfa’s, and Wild Oats.